Catechesis Notes for the Week — John’s Birth Is Announced to Zachariah—Our Advent midweek meditations prepare us to celebrate the birth of the Son of God in human flesh. This week, the Angel Garbiel announces to the priest Zachariah that he and Elizabeth will be the parents of the forerunner of the Messiah. Though he had been praying for this gift of salvation while officiating at the daily sacrifice, Zachariah doubted the Angel’s message. He is struck mute and for nine months he is given the opportunity to meditate upon the faithfulness of the Lord’s Word. Despite his doubt, the Lord kept His promise, and John was conceived and born to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming. Advent is the season of kept promises. Our faith rests upon this comforting foundation of the Lord’s Word.CP241201